Dean of Students, McClintock Middle School in Charlotte
Kiera Busching began teaching Spanish at Harding High School in 2013 as a Teach For America corps members. During the summer of 2015, she participated in the Aspiring Leaders Program, a summer fellowship opportunity for classroom teachers to shadow district leaders and complete a change project. With the support of CMS and the Principal Pipeline Initiative, she received a Master's in Educational Leadership at Winthrop University. She currently serves as a Dean of Students at McClintock Middle School. She completed a summer internship with The Belk Foundation in 2018 with a focus on expanding the pool of teacher candidates and extending the reach of effective teachers.
What have you recently learned from a student?
One of our 8th graders had to show me how to adjust the volume for our morning news broadcast. I have officially become the person who needs a teenager to help them with technology.
What is the greatest challenge our educators face?
Kids come in to school with the world on their shoulders.
When and where were you learning at your best?
My undergraduate experience at Kenyon College pushed me to think critically and creatively about the world. The people I met and the classes I took during those four years greatly shaped the person I have become and the work that I do.
Which skill would you most like to master?
I've recently taken up yoga to help force myself to slow down and take time for myself. Some day I'd like to be able to hold side crow pose.
What quality do you most admire in a school leader?
Commitment to kids. I admire those who live their passion and dedication daily. Whether it's staying late to help a family or stepping in to cover a class, great leaders do whatever is best for kids.
If you could change one thing about public education, what would it be?
There need to be more people with recent and relevant educational experiences at the table when major policy and instructional changes are made.
Who are your favorite writers?
I have a soft spot for YA fantasy novels. Brandon Sanderson is my all-time favorite, but Patrick Rothfuss is a close second.
What is your most treasured possession?
I keep a box of letters and cards from people I care about. I have notes my father wrote me when I started kindergarten all the way through college.
Favorite motto or quote?
"Let us not grow weary of doing good."
Best piece of advice ever given to you?
Stop trying to solve other people's problems and instead ask what they'd like me to do.
Advice you would give to a young person interested in a profession in education?
Be prepared to invest your time, your energy, and your heart in your work every single day.